- Gospel musician Deborah Fraser has passed away at the age of 56.
- The family revealed that the singer passed away on 15 May 2022 afternoon after a short illness.
- TRUELOVE remembers Deborah through five of her biggest songs.
Award-winning South African Gospel artist Deborah Fraser has passed away.
Announcing the news through her social media platforms, the family of the 56-year-old shared a statement where they revealed that she had passed away on 15 May 2022 afternoon after “a short illness”.
“It is with deep sadness to inform you of the passing of our beloved mother, sister, aunt and friend, and Gospel musician. Dr. Deborah Fraser following a short illness. She passed away today (Sunday 15.05.2022) after midday, in the presence of her family and friends,” the statement posted on her Instagram page reads.
The family concluded the statement by asking for privacy to grieve.
Confirming the news, family spokesperson Busi Shibodze told TRUELOVE that the singer had passed away in hospital.
“Further details will be communicated by the family during the week,” she added.
Speaking to DRUM last year, Deborah - who had suffered a few health scares due to her diabetes diagnosis over the years - said that she had learned to manage her diabetes and was living a healthy life.
“Right now, I am happy, I’m in good shape. I am healthy, you can’t even tell that I am diabetic. I left city life with its drama and stress to live and hide on my farm. I take care of my health,” she told the publication.
Deborah Fraser began her music career in 1985 as a back-up singer and later released her debut album titled Abanye Bazombona in 2000, which sold over 1 million copies. Her latest album, OkaJehova Akanqotshwa was released in 2019.
In October 2021, she was conferred with a Doctor of Philosophy in Sacred Music by the Christian Leadership Academy.
Here are five songs to remember the late singer by.
1. Ngibe Muhle Nami
2. Abanye Bayombona
3. Nantsi Lenqola
4. Ndikhokhele
5. Uma Kungenxa
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